Orthodontic issues can pop up unexpectedly, and while some might be minor, others need quick attention. Unlike general dental emergencies, which often involve serious pain or trauma, orthodontic emergencies usually relate to braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, and most of these can be managed at home until the office is open again. If you notice sudden discomfort, a broken bracket, a poking wire, or anything else affecting your treatment, it’s important to review materials from your orthodontist to use an at-home fix or in extreme cases, call for an emergency visit at 330-821-4187.
Orthodontic Care: Recognizing an Emergency Situation
Not every orthodontic issue needs immediate attention, but some situations definitely do. Here are some of the most common orthodontic emergencies:
Severe Pain or Swelling: While a little soreness is normal after an adjustment, intense pain or swelling could mean an infection or a serious problem that needs urgent care. If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t helping, call your orthodontist right away. We will work with you to identify if a dental visit is necessary to your General Dentist or if it can be taken care of in our office.
Trauma or Injury to the Mouth: Any direct injury to your mouth, like from a fall, sports accident, or other impact, can damage your braces and teeth. If you have bleeding, loose teeth, or extreme pain, seek emergency orthodontic care immediately. If teeth are chipped or knocked out, call us IMMEDIATELY and follow directions for after hours emergencies.
How to Handle an Orthodontic Emergency at Home
While you’re waiting for your orthodontic appointment, here are a few things you can do to ease discomfort and prevent more damage:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any poking wires or rough edges on brackets.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help with irritation and healing if you have cuts or sores.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed) to manage pain and swelling.
- Use tweezers or a clean pencil eraser to gently try to push a loose wire back into place if you can.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could make the problem worse.
- Try not to touch loose appliances to keep them from breaking off completely.
For broken brackets, pokey wires, shifted wires, lost hooks or retainers/aligners, call our office to leave a message and we will get you in immediately on the next business day. Dietrich Orthodontics prides itself on the information provided on our website and at your start appointment; that information includes helpful tips on handling discomfort at home until our office is open again.
Don’t Ignore Orthodontic Emergencies
For people in Canton and Alliance, we offer emergency orthodontic care. If you’re having an orthodontic emergency, contact us to set up an urgent appointment.
No matter how small the issue seems, our team is here to help and answer any questions you have. Don’t wait until your next scheduled visit to talk about sudden changes or discomfort. Taking quick action during an orthodontic emergency can really make a difference in your comfort and how well your treatment progresses.